How Access Control Systems Improve School Security

While it would be ideal to have open campuses in our schools, the reality is that too many incidents can happen that put students, teachers, and staff at risk.  Although violence in school would be the first thing anyone wants to prevent, other problems can occur when a campus is fully open. An irate parent can be a problem to staff, a parent in a custody battle might try to abduct a child, or theft of valuable school equipment like computers can occur.

Of course, over 90% of schools report employing some access control system, even if it is just limiting open entries, so people have to sign in to visit parts of the school. With newer access control systems, schools in Bellaire, TX, can add an extra layer of security at all grade levels. While high schools tend to be more open than middle and elementary campuses, using technology effectively can balance the flexibility of access for those that who it with school security. Keep reading for more.

SEE MORE: Three Current Trends in Access Control You Should Know About

Access Control Types

Much the way they have been used in commercial environments for years, electronic locks are becoming more widely used in school buildings and campuses. A variety of methods exist for access, including keypads, biometric systems, and smart cards. Cards are swiped or touched to a reader to open an electronic lock. Biometrics can read fingerprints much like smartphones and laptops use for security. Keypads require codes for entry, which might be compromised.

The key advantages of electronic locks are central control and management. In an emergency such as fire or other peril, doors could be locked or unlocked automatically to facilitate escape or emergency responders. The systems can also track individual entry, limit hours of access, and more. Electronic locks with control may also help in lockdown situations inside the school, where specific rooms can be closed off remotely in an emergency.

Need-Based Access

Access control systems with cards or biometrics are invaluable in providing access based on need. Students cannot access teacher lounges or administrative offices, and only maintenance people can access vital infrastructure. Keeping people only in areas they need to be can limit theft, vandalism, bad behavior, and other incidents.

Integration with Other Security Solutions

Surveillance cameras are another invaluable tool for keeping schools safer. While the deployment of cameras might impart feelings of reduced privacy, the additional eyes on all areas can increase safety, outweighing those concerns. The use of cameras in conjunction with access control adds another measure of protection to the system. Besides tracking entries in the access control database, the camera can monitor entrances for problems, such as access with a stolen ID.  Real alarms can be sounded for unauthorized entry, while false alarms can be avoided for students who come in with a friend without an ID because they forgot it. In other installations, a camera could provide two-way audio if someone was at an entry and needed help with access. Should visitors roam where they are not supposed to, cameras can view attempted entries to unauthorized areas, and security or administrative staff can take appropriate actions.

ASAP Security Services has vast experience across Texas with sophisticated security and surveillance solutions in both the public and commercial sectors. To learn more about access control and security solutions for schools, set up a consultation with our team by calling (877) 418-ASAP, filling out our contact form, or starting a live chat with us below. We look forward to working with you!